A council flat in London that was allocated to the first lady of Sierra Leone has been reclaimed by the local authority following a year-long investigation. Southwark Council confirmed this week that it has taken possession of the two-bedroom property in Walworth, which had been occupied by Fatima Jabbe-Bio.
Background of the case
Ms Jabbe-Bio, the wife of Sierra Leone's President Julius Maada Bio, had lived in the taxpayer-subsidised home for over a decade. However, she left London in 2018 after her husband was elected president. The couple now reside in a lavish presidential lodge in Freetown, complete with a swimming pool, tennis court, and helipad, along with other luxury properties.
Despite leaving the UK, Ms Jabbe-Bio retained the tenancy of the south London flat, claiming it was used by her children. However, housing regulations stipulate that a council property must serve as a person's principal residence.
Council's action
Reginald Popoola, Southwark's executive member for council homes, stated: "We can confirm we have taken possession of a property in Walworth following a 12-month investigation by our Housing Investigations Team. I look forward to bringing this council property back to its original purpose, which is to provide a safe and secure home for people with legitimate housing need on the council's waiting list. This property will be swiftly allocated to a local family in genuine housing need."
The council investigates all allegations of tenancy fraud and unlawful occupation, and in the last two years, it has recovered 107 properties.
First lady's defense
In an interview with the BBC last month, Ms Jabbe-Bio defended keeping the flat. The former model and actress said she had "not committed any crime" by continuing to rent the property, where she has been listed on the tenancy since 2007. "My children are all British citizens," she said. "I'm paying for my council house myself. I have not committed any crime."
However, neighbours suggested the home had been largely empty for at least the last three years and said they had not seen Ms Jabbe-Bio since she left for Sierra Leone.
Housing crisis context
Tens of thousands of families are on the waiting list for social housing in London. In Southwark alone, there are more than 18,000 households that have applied for a home, including some 4,000 in temporary accommodation. The recovery of this property is expected to help address the pressing housing need in the borough.
